Thread: Belgian stone or not?

Originally Posted by chilira

So it sounds like I need to continue w/ my Norton combo to break through.

I do agree with alex that coticule is quite friendly, but if you're after mastering honing, keeping on the norton will do it as well. And yes, bout coticules are great - not too expensive, yet work great.

Also, I'm using a TI two-sided paddle strop. I'm thinking in investing in a hanging strop (Illinois) -- the paddle strop seems "short" to me. I'm using TI paste sparingly on one-side before finishing -- 25 to 30 strokes each side after each pyramid. I'm trying to be very, very focused on my technique during honing and stropping (keeping blade flat and even -- little pressure -- x-pattern strokes -- rolling properly at end of the stroke).

Just wondering why not one of Tony's, I thought the prices were very comparable and Tony's are nicer? Almost any strop should do fine and yeah having a hanging strop may make stropping a lot more easier.

good luck

I've heard good things about both Illinois and Tony's strops. No real reason (although I do live in Illinois).

Just placed an order today, so we shall see.